Hot Mama In The City

What things remind you of summer? Is it enjoying a delicious frozen treat on a hot day, or is it family vacations? Both? Not too long ago I wrote an article on why family vacations are important. I spoke of the many reasons why bonding with your children and creating memories while on vacation can help ease the stress of everyday life and chores. As a single mom, and as someone who knows many other single parents, I understand that vacationing and traveling with children is difficult for many reasons. The big reason for most of us has to do with finances. Taking our families on a getaway vacation is costly. Many two income families struggle with paying for vacations, it can be a bigger struggle for those with a single income. As a single mom, I know all about the guilt that can come with not taking your kids on a summer trip. But that’s not what summer or memories are about. I want to remind those single parents that when it comes to having a great summer, it isn't about the destination, it’s about the adventures that create a fun and unforgettable summer.

Instead of feeling guilty, head outdoors for some fun adventures. Grab some water toys and have a water fight in your own backyard. Use your driveway to create fun and beautiful art with sidewalk chalk. Blow some bubbles into the sky, and don't forget some sweet frozen treats to keep you and your family cool on these warm days.



This summer season, Minute Maid's #doingood campaign inspired me to remind my single parent friends that they're doing a good job no matter where they spend their summer. I created a #doingood care package for a single mama friend of mine. The package includes fun and simple things she can enjoy with her kids this summer in their own backyard. I used a bucket and filled it full of outdoor toys and items to make a frozen snack to enjoy


These delicious frozen treats are so simple and fun to make. Just pick your favorite Minute Maid flavor and fresh fruits and you'll be on your way to enjoying a flavorful snack on a hot summer day. I used Minute Maid Watermelon – a favorite in my household.

What you need:

• 2-3 cups of Minute Maid juice
• Fresh fruit
• Popsicle Mold
• Popsicle sticks

How to:

• Slice and dice your fruit to fit into the molds. Hold your popsicle stick in the middle of the mold while you fill the mold with fruit. (Tip: so that all of your fruit doesn't end up the bottom of the mold. Cut fruit a bit bigger than your mold so that you'll have to squeeze your fruit in. A tight fit will help your fruit stay in place.)
• Add enough Minute Maid to fill the mold
• Freeze in your ice box until solid. Usually takes 20-30 minutes

Help shine a light on all the great things parents do for their families by reminding a parent in your life they are #doingood with a Reverse Care Package.

Head to minutemaid.com/carepackage for even more ways to remind parents they are #doingood. Be sure to follow Minute Maid on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram.